How Long to Spend in Shanghai: A Complete Guide
In this guide, we’ll explore different trip durations, ranging from 2 days to a full week, helping you decide how to make the most of your time in this vibrant city.
2-Day Itinerary: Highlights of Shanghai
If you only have two days in Shanghai, your time will be packed, but you can still see the major attractions:
Day 1:
- The Bund: Start your morning with a visit to the iconic Bund, the waterfront area that showcases Shanghai's colonial past. The juxtaposition of historic buildings against the modern skyline across the Huangpu River is a must-see.
- Yu Garden: Head to the Old City, where you’ll find Yu Garden, a classic Chinese garden that dates back to the Ming Dynasty. It’s a tranquil escape from the city’s fast pace.
- Nanjing Road: Spend the afternoon shopping on Nanjing Road, one of the world’s busiest shopping streets. From high-end brands to local shops, there’s something for everyone.
- Shanghai Tower: Cap off your day with a trip to the observation deck of the Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world. The views are unparalleled, especially at sunset.
Day 2:
- Jade Buddha Temple: Start the day by visiting the Jade Buddha Temple, a serene place that houses two jade Buddha statues brought from Burma.
- Tianzifang: Spend your afternoon exploring Tianzifang, a maze of alleys filled with quirky shops, cafes, and art studios. It’s a great spot to pick up unique souvenirs and experience Shanghai's bohemian side.
- Huangpu River Cruise: End your short trip with a cruise along the Huangpu River, where you can witness Shanghai’s skyline light up at night.
3-4 Day Itinerary: Dive Deeper into the City
With an additional day or two, you can explore more in-depth areas of the city and take in local culture:
Day 3:
- French Concession: Explore the Former French Concession, a charming area known for its tree-lined streets and colonial-era architecture. You can visit Xintiandi, a popular entertainment district with high-end restaurants and bars.
- Shanghai Museum: Spend the afternoon at the Shanghai Museum, one of China’s best museums, housing over 120,000 ancient Chinese artifacts, including bronzes, ceramics, and calligraphy.
- Huanghe Road Food Street: In the evening, head to Huanghe Road, famous for its street food. Don’t miss the chance to try xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and other local delicacies.
Day 4:
- Zhujiajiao Water Town: Take a day trip to Zhujiajiao, an ancient water town located about 50 minutes outside of Shanghai. With its canals, stone bridges, and traditional buildings, it offers a glimpse into what life in the area was like centuries ago. You can enjoy a boat ride and visit ancient temples.
5-7 Day Itinerary: A Comprehensive Exploration
A week in Shanghai allows you to not only experience the main attractions but also dig deeper into the lesser-known gems of the city.
Day 5:
- Shanghai Disneyland: For a change of pace, spend a day at Shanghai Disneyland, the newest Disney park and the first in mainland China. It offers attractions unique to Shanghai, including Pirates of the Caribbean: Battle for the Sunken Treasure and the Tron Lightcycle Power Run.
Day 6:
- Qibao Ancient Town: Visit Qibao, another ancient town located within Shanghai. It’s known for its historic buildings, old shops, and the unique flavors of Qibao street food.
- Longhua Temple and Pagoda: Head to the Longhua Temple, the oldest and largest Buddhist temple in Shanghai. Its history dates back more than 1,700 years, and the Longhua Pagoda is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
Day 7:
- Day trip to Hangzhou or Suzhou: With a week in Shanghai, consider taking a day trip to either Hangzhou, known for the picturesque West Lake, or Suzhou, famous for its classical gardens and traditional silk production. Both cities are easily accessible by high-speed train and offer a tranquil escape from Shanghai’s urban hustle.
Food and Dining: What to Eat in Shanghai
Shanghai is a food lover’s paradise, known for its diverse culinary scene. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, the city has it all. Here are some must-try dishes:
- Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings): A Shanghai classic, these delicate dumplings are filled with a savory broth and tender pork. You’ll find them at street stalls and upscale restaurants alike.
- Shengjianbao (Pan-fried Pork Buns): Another popular local dish, these buns have a crispy bottom and are filled with juicy pork.
- Hairy Crab: If you visit in autumn, don’t miss the chance to try hairy crab, a seasonal delicacy in Shanghai.
- Ciba (Glutinous Rice Balls): A sweet dessert made from sticky rice, often filled with sweet red bean paste or sesame.
Getting Around Shanghai
Shanghai has an extensive public transportation system, making it easy to get around. The metro is efficient and affordable, covering most of the city’s major attractions. Taxis are also available, but be prepared for traffic during peak hours.
If you plan to stay for a week, consider getting a Shanghai Public Transportation Card (also known as a Jiaotong Card) to save time and money. It can be used on buses, metros, ferries, and even some taxis.
When to Visit Shanghai
The best time to visit Shanghai is during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer can be extremely hot and humid, while winter is cold, though rarely below freezing.
Conclusion: How Long Should You Spend in Shanghai?
The ideal length of time to spend in Shanghai depends on your interests and travel style. If you're short on time, two days is enough to see the city's top highlights. However, for a more in-depth experience, we recommend staying for at least 4-5 days, with a week being the perfect duration to explore both the famous attractions and hidden gems.
Whatever your itinerary, Shanghai is a city that will leave a lasting impression with its blend of modernity and tradition, history and innovation.
Top Comments
No Comments Yet